Want to have IPL done. Which machine gives best results?

Question

I’ve been wanting to get IPL down for some time to now to remove small brown spots from sun and old blemishes as well as improve fine lines. I’ve done some research into local providers and the ones available to me all use a different machine. Which one would yield the best results for IPL: Alma Harmony XL Pro, Lumenis, Sction (BBL)? Thank you

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

There is a really broad selection when it comes to removing brown spots. Cutera, Syneron, Inmode, are all great. IPL is intense pulsed light, BBL is broad band light and PPL is pulsed pulsed light. They come in a variety of wave lengths like 532, 775, 615, 1064. Different waveslengths target different colors, like red/brown, black/brown, purple, etc. Also certain skin types are at more risk of hyperpigmentation from to intense a treatment so I suggest going to a place with aesthetic RNs or estheticians that are certified. I personally love BBL, especially the one you mentioned, but all are very effective.

Kimberly Butterwick, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. While IPL is an excellent choice for treating brown spots and fine lines, not all devices will produce the same results for you. At my practice, we are now offering the Stellar M22 IPL from Lumenis, in addition to the original M22. These powerful devices allow us to treat more than 30 skin conditions with a single platform. The Stellar M22 offers optimal pulse technology that ensures a more comfortable procedure while delivering the same superior results as the original M22.

In addition to the right device, you want to make sure you work with a board-certified dermatologist who has experience and expertise in working with IPL for a variety of concerns to ensure a safe and successful procedure. In this instance, most of the devices you mentioned are good but only as good as the physician who is operating them.  Please choose wisely.

Rebecca Fitzgerald, MD · Answer

We upgraded to Sciton BBL because of the versatility gained from all the specific filters. Changing filters during the procedure may extend the individual treatment time a little, but we can fine-tune to target a wide variety of colors more precisely. Discoloration and spots from sun and blemishes aren't always "brown".

Machine choice aside, be sure you select a qualified medical practice.

Machine choice aside, be sure you select a qualified medical practice.

Joel L. Cohen, MD · Answer

BBL Hero is done “in motion” with the handpiece constantly moving. It is a new technology that was essentially released in early 2021. I started using it in Nov of 2020 serving on the Sciton Scientific Advisory Board. It is faster treatment, can cover a lot more areas in a shorter period of time, leads to a lot more efficacy PER SESSION, and often less overall treatment sessions to reach your desired goal. Plus, it seems to be safer &mdash; with much less risk of the rectangular patterns on the skin from traditional IPL &mdash; as BBL Hero handpiece is constantly “in motion” during the treatment. So Hero is a major innovation.

Roberta Huang, MD · Answer

all of those lasers you have listed i.e Alma Harmony XL Pro, Lumenis, Sction (BBL) are wonderful treats and give great results! Personally have used the Alma Harmony and feel it is better for facial flushing/redness rather than sundamage. Love Sction BBL tx, especially when combined with the Halo procedure. Remember IPL or BBL procedures are typically best done with a series of treatments.

Want to have IPL done. Which machine gives best results?

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